Zepp is stepping up their game with a new app for tennis players. While the sensor and mounts remain completely the same, the Zepp 2.0 app features a modern update and is now endorsed by ATP star, Milos Raonic.

Compatible with all rackets, the Zepp sensor has two different mounts, the pro mount or the flex mount. For me, I preferred the pro mount because it was less obtrusive as I tend to hold the grip at the lowest possible point. There were times my hand was hanging over the edge and I could feel the sensor. However, it was never bothersome. When using the flex mount, I would recommend using an overgrip on top of the mount for better comfort.

The Zepp sensor with the flex mount.

When setting up the Zepp sensor for use, I noticed two things. The first was when I was turning the device on. You have to hold down the button firmly with two thumbs for 4-plus seconds. Sometimes I wasn’t pushing firmly enough or holding down the button long enough. When the sensor does turn on, you will see the lights appear down the sensor (they remind me of Nightrider). Secondly I had some initial difficulties with charging the device. My recommendation is to make sure the sensor is charging on a flat surface and that the gold dots on the sensor are fully lined up with the charger. Sometimes the sensor would need a small adjustment when inside the charger. Make sure you can see the lights turn on to confirm that the sensor is charging. For more information on setting up the sensor, please check out the How to Set Up the Zepp Tennis Sensor Video (in English only).

Once out on the court, I had no issues with connecting the sensor to the tablet and it was very easy to see if the device was connected once inside the app. The app itself is very straightforward. There is a main screen to get you to the three different features on the app: the training center, 3D serve practice and play tracking. There is also a sidebar for easy navigation within the app that I found myself using a lot. (more…)

We get asked all the time if a hard court shoe will be suitable on a clay court or even a grass court. While you can get away with it, there is a reason why there are specific shoes for specific surfaces. Each surface plays a little different and your game and footwork can change depending on what surface you are playing on. So let’s take a look at what the distinctions are between these three types of shoes.

Hard Court Outsole

Hard Court Outsoles

The most popular and common tennis court surface is a hard court. This court is also the most demanding when it comes to outsole durability. Depending on where you play, you may encounter a gritty, slower hard court or possibly a slick, more slippery, quick court. Either way, the soles of hard court shoes are usually built to handle the demands of this surface. Most often they feature a modified herringbone pattern to give you the perfect blend of grip and give on the court. Hard court shoes will often feature ample cushioning and a midsole that will help transfer energy into every step you take as well as absorb shock from the harder surface. They usually feature a tough upper that will aid in support and durability. The toe area is often built up and protected for the toe draggers out there, as a gritty hard court can really do some damage to your shoes. When choosing a hard court shoe, there are usually two types you can choose from – the first being a durable, stable option and the second option is a speed-oriented shoe. These are often lighter in weight and they have been made to have a faster feel. The outsole usually has a little less grab but more give and they have a tendency to wear out faster. Hard court shoes are the most versatile shoes and can be used on clay or grass courts.

The design of the Sony sensor makes it very unobtrusive during play, allowing you to focus on your game!

(video in English only)

Bursting onto the tennis sensor and gadget scene is the Sony Smart Sensor! Compatible with 2015 rackets from Wilson, Head, Prince and Yonex, the Sony sensor takes this revolutionary technology to a whole new level for tennis players, now incorporating video content to along with real-time shot stats delivered straight to your smartphone or tablet.

Connecting the sensor to your racket and Android/iOS device is easy once the sensor is charged and you’ve downloaded the free Sony app. Setup takes seconds and then you’re ready to take the court!

The design of the Sony sensor makes it very unobtrusive during play, allowing you to focus on your game!

One of my favorite things about the Sony sensor is how unobtrusive and unnoticeable it is during play. You may feel it a little bit as you’re getting used to it if your hand drops off the end of the racket, but the tapered design of the sensor makes it really easy to forget about so you can focus on your game!

During play, the sensor tracks a number of different things, including shot type, impact spot, swing speed, ball speed and spin. It does so in real-time so that you can check your stats during any break in play on your smartphone or tablet. (more…)

Get excited! One of the most popular and versatile racket collections this sport has seen has just received an update! Here’s a first look on this update from someone who has hit a bit with these. And don’t worry, you won’t be waiting too long for these as they will be available to order beginning of December!

I must preface this blog and say I may have a slightly biased opinion since I have been using one form or another of the Pure Drive since 2001, so with that being said, I was insanely excited for this update! And I can say with confidence, if you love the Pure Drive series, you should enjoy this update!